Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course, the students should:

  • Have knowledge about psychology’s role in games and E-sports.
  • Have knowledge about central ethical theories and concepts
  • Discuss ethics specifically related to games and sports.
  • Discuss psychological challenges related to games.

Contents

Digital games have become widely popular, with more than two billion people playing at different levels of involvement. For most players, gaming is a positive recreational activity. However, concerns have been raised regarding detrimental effects of gaming, gaming addiction and toxic behavior in the gaming culture. On the other hand, novel research is starting to examine possible positive effects of gaming.

This course will provide insight into the current research status on gaming and E-sports. What do we know and what don’t we know? What challenges are we facing? The course will look at psychological as well as ethical challenges that might occur through gaming. There will also be a focus on types of games and possible effects. The use of drugs in E-sports is also covered in this course.

Teaching and learning methods

The course is taught as a combination of lectures, flipped classroom, discussions, and mandatory tasks. The students will also be presented with many cases that will be discussed.

Expected workload for the average student is 135 hours.

Examination requirements

All mandatory tasks must be completed and approved. An overview of all tasks will be presented in Canvas.

Examinations

Individual oral examination. Details will be given in Canvas at the start of the semester. Graded assessment.

Student evaluation

The study program manager, in consultation with the student representative, decides the method of evaluation and whether the courses will have a midterm- or end of term evaluation, see also the Quality System, section 4.1. Information about evaluation method for the course will be posted on Canvas.

Reduction of Credits

This course’s contents overlap with the following courses. A reduction of credits will occur if one of these courses is taken in addition:

Course Reduction of Credits
PS-900 – Psychology and Ethics. 5
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 9:50:01 AM